National Urban Mobility Week

Between September 18th and 25th, Brazil celebrates National Urban Mobility Week, a time for reflection on the challenges and opportunities to make cities more accessible, safe, and sustainable. The highlight of the mobilization is World Car-Free Day, a date that invites the population to rethink commuting habits and to value public transport and active modes of transportation, such as walking and cycling.

These initiatives gain even more relevance in light of a recent diagnosis presented by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) in partnership with the Ministry of Cities. According to the study, by 2054, to avoid infrastructure deficits, Brazil will need to implement an additional 2.446 km of structured public transport systems in the 21 largest metropolitan regions. Experts estimate that investments of around R$ 600 billion will be necessary over the next three decades.

Part of this effort is already underway. The New PAC (Growth Acceleration Program) has resumed major investments in infrastructure and, for the urban mobility sector alone, foresees more than R$ 36 billion in works throughout the country, including the expansion of subways and light rail systems, the implementation of BRT corridors, the renewal of fleets with sustainable vehicles, electronic ticketing systems, bike paths and accessibility in urban areas, always observing modal integration.

In the legislative field, debate is progressing in the Chamber of Deputies regarding Bill No. 3.278/2021, which proposes to establish the legal framework for urban public transportation. The proposal foresees modern instruments for financing infrastructure, such as capturing real estate appreciation, trading carbon credits, tax incentives, and partnerships with public and private funds. The bill also strengthens legal certainty and creates a solid foundation for universal access and reducing inequalities.

Adding to this debate, the Manifesto of the National Movement for the Right to Quality Public Transportation for All (MDT) and Rua Viva reinforces measures aimed at consolidating transportation as a social right and essential service, advocating for the establishment of the Unified Mobility System (SUM) with actions aimed at improving public transportation systems and appropriate fare policies.

Reducing dependence on automobiles is not just about easing traffic congestion. It's a matter of public health and addressing climate change. After all, the transportation sector accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions in the country.

We remain committed to expanding active transportation infrastructure and public transportation systems, investing in clean fleets, and ensuring legal certainty and stable sources of funding. Along these lines, Brazil will advance towards safe, inclusive, and sustainable urban mobility, in line with the climate commitments that will be central to COP 30 in November 2025.